Safety Pavilion

Compagnie-O

Knokke-Heist, Zeedijk-Knokke 660

2015 – 2019

Knokke

While looking at which blog post I would write now, the choice quickly fell on the bright yellow pavilion on the Zeedijk of Knokke-Heist. A few weeks ago we spent a mini vacation at the sea and we went to see this building, among other things. During the hottest days ever recorded, it may provide some cooling.

Observation post for lifeguards

“It has to be something pretty and playful like Brighton or Joseph Emberton. A party in Belgium! Something round and pink?” – John Körmeling

1.8 million euros was invested in the new lifeguard pavilion. The design by the Dutch artist John Körmeling was chosen from more than 70 entries. It was developed by the Compagnie O architectural firm. 130 rescuers and 30 first aid workers work here. With so many staff it is convenient that there is a central coordination post. A first aid post has been installed in the pavilion, next to a meeting room, space for the police, public toilets and a garage. The main mast on the pavilion ensures good radio communication. Lost children can also be looked after in the green, restful room of the emergency room.

Bright yellow

It is bright yellow as plastic beach toys and buoys – as the sun, and one of the universal colours of the lifeguards.

The building is weather and wind resistant. It appears to be closed, but there are openings and one can walk freely. In the ‘lifeguard’s nest’ at the top, the lifeguards have a clear overview of the 11 kilometer long coast of Knokke-Heist and can be seen far out to sea.

Compagnie-O

Compagnie-O is a design agency based in Gent (Beglium) and started with a collaboration between Joke Vermeulen and Francis Catteeuw. There are 14 architects working in the office. They wish to approach each project differently. They question the question over and over again. Their motto on the site is the following:

“Float Like A Butterfly and Sting Like a Bee” – Muhammad Ali